Salary And Job Outlook For Nurses In Arizona
While Arizona RNs and NPs out-earn their counterparts in many other states, Arizona’s cost of living index is 107, compared to the national index of 100.
Due to a job growth rate far above the 7% national average, Arizona may experience a surplus of about 1,200 nurses by 2030. However, candidates who attend nursing schools in Arizona enjoy a variety of employment options elsewhere because they can seek NLC licensure.
Unlike nurses in many other states, Arizona RNs in nonmetropolitan areas earn the highest average salaries due to higher demand in these locations. However, their counterparts in urban areas like Phoenix, earn nearly as much.
Top Paying Metropolitan Areas |
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Best Nursing Schools In Arizona
Arizona prides itself on having some of the most renowned hospitals with high quality nursing staff. The state research shows that by having a Bachelors of Science in Nursing there is a parallel to increased salaries, career advancement opportunities and a greater drive for furthering education. The trend for furthering education is on the rise, which in turn has a predicted employment rate increase of approximately 25% by 2022 in the state of Arizona. Arizona is committed to providing the best quality nursing care and encourages maximizing your potential for career advancement by furthering your education.
For RN bridge programs visit:
Reasons To Obtain A Degree From One Of The Nursing Schools In Phoenix
The dire nursing shortage in Arizona means that there is a critical need for nurses in the state, including in the Phoenix area. These schools offer either traditional classroom settings, completely online programs, or in some cases, students have the opportunity to choose their preferred learning format.
Wallet Hub lists Arizona as the seventh state on its list of the overall Best Places to Work as a Nurse. Attending one of these nursing education programs provides you with the education required of a qualified nurse. Each of the best nursing schools listed here are accredited schools and programs. Whether youre looking for a BSN nursing program in Arizona or another type of nursing program, youll be sure to find an option here.
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Types Of Nursing Programs Available In Arizona
Since the nursing profession is such a broad field, students can choose from multiple paths to get the education they desire, from associate degrees to PhDs. The following section will familiarize you with Arizona nursing programs at each academic level consider which options are the best match for your career goals and lifestyle. /p>
Overview Of Nursing Colleges In Arizona

- There are 32 nursing schools in Arizona. The CCNE accredits 11 nursing schools and the ACEN accredits 23 schools in Arizona.
- Typically, an Associate Degree in Nursing will take between 18 to 24 months to complete, and a Bachelor Degree in Nursing will take about 4 years to complete.
- The average NCLEX passing rate range for ADN students in Arizona is between 85.50% and 96.69%.
- The average NCLEX passing rate range for BSN students in Arizona is between 87.06% and 93.49%.
- The average annual salary for registered nurses is between $52,080 to $111,220 a year.
- Registered Nurses throughout the country and in Arizona can expect a favorable job growth of 15 percent from 2016 to 2026 which much faster than the average for all occupations.
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Accredited Yes We Are
Learn more about our accredited nursing school in Phoenix, Arizona
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education , the accreditation authority for nursing schools in the United States, accredits Chamberlain Universitys Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program, the Master of Science in Nursing degree program, the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and the post-graduate Advanced Practice Registered Nurse certificate program. For the most recent accreditation information, visit .
Chamberlain University is also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the United States Department of Education.
Accredited Nursing Schools in Arizona – Approvals
Are you looking for accredited nursing schools in Arizona? Chamberlain is authorized to operate and grant degrees by the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education, 1740 W. Adams, Suite 3008, Phoenix, AZ 85007, 602.542.5709. Chamberlain College of Nursing has full approval to offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program in Phoenix from the Arizona State Board of Nursing, 1740 W. Adams, Suite 2000, Phoenix, AZ 85007, 602.771.7800.
Chamberlain Phoenix Nursing Program FAQs
You can transfer relevant credits from other coursework. Our Phoenix campus welcomes transfer students from all across the country and gives them a head start on their BSN degree.
Pima Medical Institute Tuscon
Pima Medical Institute in Tuscan is an institution focused on health professionals and has over 100,000 graduates. Students can find flexibility with accelerated certificates, associate degrees, and bachelors degrees that are full-time or part-time with night classes offered for convenience. Associate and bachelors degrees can take two years or less to complete with online nursing programs available.
- Tuition/year: $16,658
- Online Programs Offered: 8
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How We Ranked The Best Arizona Nursing Schools
Whether theyre going back to school to earn a higher salary, or just starting their nursing career, nursing students have to keep a lot of factors in mind. Nursing School Hub editors focus on the most important will a program provide quality education and a real career impact. We rank programs according to their return on investment, using data on cost, reputation, and salary from IPEDS, Niche, and College Scorecard.
How To Become An Rn In Arizona: Licensing Information And Requirements
Before you can start working, you need a license from the state of Arizona. Here are the steps youll need to follow:
Complete Your Degree Program
To qualify for an Arizona RN license, students must complete a state-approved diploma, associate degree, or bachelors degree program.
Pass the NCLEX-RN
Your license application fee of $150 is required.
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Bsn Program Admission Requirements In Arizona
Throughout the states 10 or so BSN programs, requirements for admission do vary. However, most requirements can be generally summed up as below. Students should ensure they contact the Admissions department during enrollment
- Students have a GPA that exceeds the minimum program standard
- Students have no record of academic dishonesty and otherwise meet university admission criteria
- All transcripts from former institutions have been submitted
- The student is in good standing in all respects
Accreditation And Program Information
The Associate Degree Nursing Programs at Pima Medical Institute Mesa Campus and Tucson Campus have been granted full approval for a Nursing Program by the Arizona Board of Nursing. Graduates of Pima Medical Institutes Associate Degree Nursing Program are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN® Exam.
The Associate Degree Nursing Program does not currently have programmatic accreditation. The lack of national nursing accreditation may limit future educational and career options for students. The Pima Medical Institute Associate Degree Nursing program holds pre-accreditation status from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation , located at 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20037. Holding pre-accreditation status does not guarantee that initial accreditation by NLN CNEA will be received. They can be contacted at 800-669-1656 or through their website at www.nln.org/accreditation-services.
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How Long Does It Take To Complete An Accelerated Nursing Program In Arizona
This all depends on the school of course so take some time to shop around. In general you will be able to earn your BSN through an accelerated nursing program in 18 months or less. Some of these programs will be non-stop year round, while others may factor in a break. You will complete not only course work but also required hands on clinical experiences during this time so that you can master your new nursing skills.
S To Register For The Nclex

Be sure to talk to your school about the requirements for signing up for the NCLEX. They can help you with timing and steps. The process can take some time, so dont wait until the last minute. Here are some important steps you need to take to register for the big day:
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Accelerated Nursing Programs In Arizona
Accelerating your career from RN to BSN, BSN to MSN or bridging programs from RN to MSN can have great advantages. Arizona offers these types of programs at four different colleges within the state making the option of attaining an accelerated degree more accessible. These programs can be quite an intense commitment as some of them are a full 12-month full-time commitment, whereas some of the bridging or part-time options can run for 30 months. The cost and admission requirements for these programs vary from one program option to another, depending on full-time course loads or individual online course options.
Paradise Valley Community College
Paradise Valley Community College offers several nursing programs within the school, including the Maricopa Nursing Program that is implemented in seven other schools. Students in the program will rotate through nearby healthcare facilities while working with nurses, physicians, and patients. Upon completion, students will be prepared to take the NCLEX and apply for a nursing license.
- In-State Tuition: $2,046
- Online Programs Offered: unknown
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About Nursing Colleges In Arizona
Like most of the nation, Arizona is also looking forward to a rise in the demand for nurses the number of RNs working in the state is predicted to rise from 21,620 to 29,190 from the year 2018 to 2028. The RNs are paid $80,625 annually on average, where those with 1-4 years of experience gain $57,530, and those with more than 20 years of experience earn $104,290 annually.
The state is also an ideal destination for Nurse Practitioners as those with even minimal experience can earn up to $100,000 annually, and those with more than 20 years of experience are paid more than $150,000 per year. There are currently 4,790 NPs working in the state, and the number is expected to rise by a whopping 50.9% from 2018 to 2028. The state calls for 200 NPs and 2,110 RNs annually to work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, community care centers, clinics, home care, and more.
On top of that, Arizona’s state practice and licensure laws have granted Nurse Practitioners permission for Full Practice. The Full Practice permits NPS to evaluate patients, diagnose, order, and interpret diagnostic tests and initiate and manage treatments, including prescribing medications and controlled substances.
Arizona’s multiple nursing colleges provide quality nursing education at undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels. The best of those institutes are mentioned below.
Are Online Nursing Programs In Arizona More Affordable Than Campus Programs
Not necessarily. In terms of tuition, an online nursing program in Arizona costs around the same amount as a traditional school, depending on if the program is offered through a public or private institution. However, you can save money on transportation to campus every day, which helps keep the cost down.
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Best Rn Programs In Arizona
Selecting the best nursing school in Arizona can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN “pass rates.” We have ranked the top 10 nursing schools in Arizona by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN “pass rates”, meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 33 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing , BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.
For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page .
Score: 97.97
Eastern Arizona College, located in Thatcher, offers an associate’s degree pathway to registered nursing which focuses on stellar patient care using evidence-based nursing processes. Graduates of this 72-credit program go on to find employment in a number of healthcare arenas.
Program Details
Score: 97.39
Scottsdale Community College’s associate degree in nursing program is approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing, assuring first-rate evidence-based teaching to eager nursing students. The city of Scottsdale welcomes SCC’s nursing graduates with a variety of job and networking opportunities.
Program Details
Score: 96.50
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing, Paramedic to RN
- Phone: 461-7000
Score: 96.39
Program Details
Score: 95.94
Program Details
- Programs: Associate in Nursing, Paramedic to RN
- Phone: 787-6500
Score: 95.33
Score: 94.86
What Is An Accelerated Nursing Program
An accelerated nursing program is a fast track educational option for individuals who have the academic foundation to begin their Do you have a bachelors degree, but are looking for an accelerated path to become a registered nurse? An accelerated nursing program enables students who hold at least 90 credit hours of college coursework, including general education and college-level sciences, to become registered nurses by taking less than the 200-credit program most bachelors degree holders must complete.
Students beginning an accelerated nursing program learn advanced clinical skills while also studying medical and end-of-life care as well as education and communication. Accelerated nursing programs also teach students to manage their time in a demanding educational environment.
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Loan Repayment Scholarships And Grants For Az Nurses
The Arizona Loan Repayment Program is made available to doctors and to limited Advanced Practice Nurses through the AZ Department of Health Services. Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Midwives in Arizona may qualify for up to a maximum $10,500 in loan repayment money. The hitch: between 1 and 4 years employment in a medically underserved healthcare facility in the state according to program guidelines.
The Arizona Nurses Foundation gives away between $500 and $2,500 scholarship awards to Associates, BSN, MSN, and doctoral degree-seeking RNs.
How Long Is Nursing School In Arizona

The amount of time you spend in a Arizona nursing school will vary based upon the career path you choose. You can become a Certified Nursing Assistant in as little as 6 to 12 weeks. Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1 to 1.5 years, a Arizona Registered Nurse in 2 to 4 years, or stay in nursing school longer to become a Nurse Practitioner in 6 to 8 years.
Above on this page we created a tabular image which summarizes how long nursing school is in Arizona. That image includes the number of nurses employed in the state of Arizona, along with the average wages earned at each education level.
Notice that in the state of Arizona, far greater numbers are employed as a Registered Nurse compared to a Licensed Practical Nurse . Notice also that a Licensed Practical Nurse in Arizona earns far more in wages compared to a Certified Nursing Assistant .
Use the nursing program acronyms CNA, LPN, ASN, BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD to help identify which Arizona nursing schools offer the length of program you desire.
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Find Accredited Rn Programs In Arizona
Are you interested in training for a nursing career in Arizona? Do you want to earn the best possible salary and obtain the most prestigious position in the field? If so, becoming a Registered Nurse may be the perfect choice for you. There is a growing need for Registered Nurses in the United States, and those who choose to work in Arizona enjoy average salaries of about $54,000 per year.
But just how do you become an RN in Arizona? First, you will need to earn a minimum of an Associate Degree in Nursing from an accredited training facility. During your RN training, you will participate in both theory and practical classes. Upon graduating from your program, the second step involved in reaching your goal is to complete the two-part NCLEX-RN examination.
The NCLEX-RN is a comprehensive exam that evaluates your abilities as an RN. Successful scores on both parts of this test are required to obtain an RN license in Arizona.
New Advanced Na And Medication Assistant Courses
If you have had one year of full-time employment or two-years of part-time employment in direct patient care within the last five years and want to obtain your CNA or LNA, GateWay has the course for you. The new Advanced Placement Nurse Assistant course will have starts in Fall 2021. This is a two-credit class that will prepare those with experience to sit for the Certified Nurse Assistant examination.
For information, contact Kristen Woods, Nursing Assistant Coordinator, at or PK Felix, Nursing Advisor, at , .
Separately, if you are interested in expanding your skills as a Certified Nursing Assistant, the new Medication Assistant program is for you! During this fast-paced four credit course, you will learn how to administer select medications in addition to the role and scope of the medication assistant. Learn about requirements for the Medication Assistant course here.
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Chamberlain College Of Nursing Phoenix
Chamberlain College of Nursing offers nursing programs that can be completed in as few as three semesters. The programs are offered full-time and part-time and are available completely online. Clinicals are required for students, but they can often be completed at the students workplace.
- In-State Tuition: $18,630
- Online Programs Offered: 5